URL: https://democracy.lichfielddc.gov.uk/ieDecisionDetails.aspx?ID=794

Decision Maker: Council

Outcome: Recommendations Approved

Is Key Decision?: Yes

Is Callable In?: No

Purpose: To consider the Council’s Local Government Reorganisation proposal.

Content: To consider the Council’s Local Government Reorganisation proposal. Council recommended:   That Cabinet approves the preferred option, a three unitary model to cover Staffordshire and Stokeon-Trent, as set out in the full submission document at Appendix 1.   That Cabinet delegates finalising the full submission document to the Leader of the Council, in consultation with the Chief Executive, prior to submitting to Government by the 28 November 2025 deadline. In December 2024, the Government published a White Paper (Power and Partnership: Foundations for Growth) setting out their plans for devolution and Local Government Reorganisation (‘the White Paper’) alongside the process for determining the future structure of local government in two tier areas, and their timetable for its implementation.   The reasons Government gave for a need for Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) in areas like Staffordshire are rooted in both efficiency goals and its broader devolution ambitions: • Government is seeking to create simpler, clearer local government structures that are easier for residents to understand and navigate. • Their view is clearly that the current two-tier system leads to confusion and duplication of services. • Equally, reorganisation is expected to unlock efficiency savings by reducing administrative overheads and streamlining service delivery. • It is also believed that a single-tier system will enhance local democratic accountability, with clearer lines of responsibility for services. • LGR aligns with the goals of the Government’s English Devolution White Paper and the Devolution Priority Programme. • Then, larger unitary authorities are expected to provide stronger regional leadership, better strategic planning, and more effective use of resources.   Local authorities in two-tier areas were invited to submit initial proposals for Local Government Reorganisation by 21 March 2025, with final proposals to be submitted in November.   Lichfield District Council worked with neighbouring authorities (Cannock Chase, South Staffordshire, Stafford, Tamworth and East Staffordshire) in the development of an interim plan, which Council endorsed at its meeting on 18 March 2025.   Following the submission of the Interim Plan, the Council continued to work with neighbouring authorities on developing a detailed evidence base and investigating our options for LGR. This has led to a preferred option being identified and this paper introduces it, our final proposal, for Council’s endorsement before Cabinet meets to formally determine the best option for the residents of our district.   Final proposals must be submitted to Government by 28 November 2025. Do nothing - The Secretary of State retains the power to implement reorganisation even if councils do not submit proposals.   Support another option – The three unitary proposal, with two unitaries covering the south of the county, is the only option that will preserve the “local touch” that people value: services designed around local needs, councillors who listen, and greater accountability. This option also provides clear opportunities for saving money, removing duplication, simplifying services, and maintaining the character and traditions of our communities

Date of Decision: November 4, 2025